Doctors and nurses in Zimbabwe’s
public hospitals have gone on strike and are vowing not to return until the
government gives them personal protective equipment so they can safely treat
suspected coronavirus patients. Public health specialists warn that without
action to resolve the matter, Zimbabwe could turn into another COVID-19
epicenter.

Doctors and nurses from government
hospitals said they went on strike because pleas to address their safety concerns
had fallen on deaf ears.

The issue first arose after Zororo
Makamba, a well-known TV broadcaster, died Monday at Zimbabwe’s designated
hospital for COVID-19 patients.

His family said the hospital lacked the necessary
equipment for treating Makamba, and doctors said they did not have the right
masks and protective clothing.

On Thursday, doctors and nurses union officials addressed
their members outside the country’s main hospital in Harare and circulated the
audio on social media.

“We need personal protective equipment for our doctors
and nurses, and for everyone who is going to be working in the health sector,
or anyone who is going to be in contact with anyone who is going to be affected
by this coronavirus,” said Tapiwa Mungofa, treasurer of Zimbabwe Hospital
Doctors Association. “Where we are right now is not a position that
we wanted, and as soon as our protection as health workers is guaranteed, we
are ready to serve the Zimbabwean population. We are ready to fight this
coronavirus.”

Fortune Nyamande, a public health specialist, is the
spokesman from the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights.

Speaking via WhatsApp, he said his organization was not
surprised about the actions of the health personnel, given their low salaries
and poor working conditions.

“These issues which are being raised by the government
doctors and nurses have been said for quite a lot of time,” said Nyamande.
“The government has been paying lip service in terms of responding to
grievances raised by medical personnel. It is the time for the state to
recalibrate its commitment towards taking good care of the welfare of health
workers.”

“We want them to be back at work and
not to worry, as we are even getting some more protective equipment,” said
Moyo. “We cannot joke about the life of our nation, let alone of those who
look after the sick. If I could add on: The government has decided that they
should get risk allowance. A COVID-19 risk allowance is necessary for all
those health workers who are providing this service.”

So far, Zimbabwe has seen two confirmed
COVID-19 cases, including Makamba. Doctors are waiting for test results
on another suspected coronavirus patient.